Rubber sheets

G.W. writes to remind me that adults, especially as they get older, also have problems with bedwetting. She states that she has been using rubber sheets to cover her bed for years and wonders if the newer plastic bed sheets and covers are as durable?

 It is important to use waterproof (plastic, vinyl or polyurethane) mattress covers to protect your bed. Not only do these products protect your bed from urine, but other fluid spills, dust mites and bed bugs. Rubber seems to have been replaced by vinyl as a lightweight, inexpensive, effective mattress protection.

Our vinyl mattress covers come in 2 different thicknesses, 3 Gauge and 6 Gauge. The larger number represents a thicker, more durable vinyl product.

So if durability is important, I would recommend choosing the 6 Gauge products. The disadvantage of using a rubber or vinyl cover is that it doesn't allow the body heat to dissipate so some users report that they sweat more in the nighttime unless another absorbent mattress pad is used on top.

Vinyl mattress covers are simply wiped clean in the morning. The waterproof mattress pads that incorporate a vinyl waterproof barrier can be machine washed.  The other product that has been developed over the years is a waterproof, but breathable, mattress cover. These mattress covers use polyurethane as the waterproof barrier, which comfortably lets heat through. The premium mattress covers also have a terry cloth like top layer and are comfortable to use with just a sheet on top. If this type of cover becomes soiled, it can be machine washed and dried. These premium mattress covers carry a 10 year warranty so are made to last.